THE old saying that one run makes a difference in cricket has proved to be very true in our last two thrilling C&G Trophy ties.

The games against Surrey and Hampshire proved absolute nail-biters in both going down to the very last ball.

It really hurt losing by one run to Surrey, however, feelings were much brighter after the four-wicket win over Shane Warne’s Hampshire boys.

These matches proved similar in that our bowling was a little disappointing in both, some of that can perhaps be excused by an injury-hit and unsettled attack coupled with the late arrival of Andrew Hall.

As a result, we have found ourselves involved in massive run chases in both games and generally I have been pleased with the way we have gone about them.

Of course, chasing down 259 at the Rose bowl is really quite special, especially when a certain S.K Warne bowls 10 of the 50 overs.

Our ability to 'defend for runs', taking singles from ostensibly defensive shots, has improved greatly, as has our running between the wickets.

Captain Robert Key, who has put in a huge effort with his diet and fitness, has set a fantastic example and his running between the wickets improved noticeably as he lead the charge with a fine 76.

The Rose Bowl game reminded me of the 1999 World Cup match when Allan Donald and Lance Klusener suffered that costly run out with South Africa needing a single to beat Australia and go through to the final.

This time around Matt Walker handled the pressure ever so calmly, hitting a magnificent straight drive for four off the penultimate ball and then scampering a single to win the match.

Our injury problems still exist and we were dealt another cruel blow when Rob Joseph broke down after only two overs.

On the positive side, Amjad Kahn is recovering rapidly from his hamstring injury, but Min Patel may take a little longer and Martin Saggers appears some way off playing again.